One of the loneliest gorillas in the world, Bua Noi, will spend her 41st Christmas trapped in a tiny concrete cage inside a shopping mall in Thailand. The gorilla has lived in the controversial Pata Zoo for most of her life, surrounded by shoppers who gawk at her as they pass by on the mall’s upper levels.
Bua Noi has been the center of numerous campaigns to rescue her and relocate her to a sanctuary, with international animal welfare groups and even celebrities like Cher calling for her release. However, the zoo owner has consistently refused to sell her, demanding a payment of £700,000.
Despite the efforts, Bua Noi remains trapped, with her condition reportedly worsening in recent years. A 2019 report detailed her pulling out her hair and rolling around in her cage, which is seen as a sign of extreme psychological distress. Footage also shows her looking visibly depressed and staring through the bars of her enclosure.
PETA has spent over 12 years trying to relocate Bua Noi to a more spacious and naturalistic environment, but so far, their efforts have been met with resistance.
Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa has also expressed support for moving Bua Noi to a sanctuary, stating that the owner’s refusal to sell her has hindered progress. He has called the situation “grave” and has authorized donations to help relocate the gorilla.
PETA Asia’s Senior Vice President, Jason Baker, has been vocal about the company’s concerns for Bua Noi’s health and wellbeing, stating that she is “suffering from extreme psychological distress in the concrete enclosure” and that she deserves to be transferred to a reputable sanctuary where she can live with other animals and enjoy basic comforts.
The Pata Zoo has defended its treatment of Bua Noi, with the director claiming that criticism of her welfare “doesn’t concern him.” However, many have condemned the zoo for its cruel treatment of animals, labeling it “one of the worst zoos in the world.”